In an interview yesterday, Hocog who won a House seat as an independent, said he had yet to submit his letter of intent to GOP, but he decided to run for mayor because he wants to show how Rota can contribute to the CNMI economy instead of relying on the central government’s resources.
Citing its rich natural and “intellectual” resources, Hocog believes that Rota is a “sleeping treasure island” and he vows to “wake it up.”
He said a thriving Rota economy will benefit all the people of the CNMI.
As mayor of Rota, Hocog said he will ensure that the municipal government helps the central government.
Hocog also feels that the “accomplishments” of the Rota legislative delegation were not “conspicuously” seen by the people.
He vows to rebuild Rota agriculture and pave the way for more business opportunities for farmers.
A long-time Democrat, Hocog said he has been supportive of the GOP’s ideals and positions on a lot of issues.
As a House member, Hocog usually votes with the Republican leadership.
“So why would I move away from a leadership that has showed cooperation and bonding?” Hocog said.
Hocog was the running mate of then-Washington Rep. Froilan C. Tenorio in the 1989 gubernatorial election.
They lost to the GOP tandem of former Senate Presidents Lorenzo I. Deleon Guerrero and Benjamin T. Manglona
The GOP slate on Rota also includes Sen. Paterno S. Hocog and Vincent Calvo as candidates for senator, and Ross Manglona as the candidate for the House of Representatives.
